HE'S missed half the season and wants to make up for lost time.

Warrington's Mark Hilton stormed back into Super League on Sunday as if he had never been away. Now, he is setting his sights on making 1997 a year to remember.

The Wolves may well be in the home straight as far as the championship campaign goes, but Hilton is eyeing international honours too.

"It is brilliant to be back. I enjoyed it out there," he said after the Halifax victory.

"I suffered a little with match fitness in the second half, but I am sure that will come back very quickly. In training, I have tried to put myself through all the experiences which I would go through in a game - so everything is covered.

"Hopefully I will get a full 80 minutes against Leeds on Friday."

He added: "I want to get back in the team, keep my place, and then I will be fighting for a place in the Great Britain team for the Ashes - but that's everybody's aim, I suppose!

"The World Club Championship comes before anything else. Me and Gary Chambers have come back at the right time. We will be spot on for the Aussies."

Hilton's comeback had been delayed a week by a groin strain. He felt no reaction during Sunday's match, but it has come back to haunt him again in training this week.

"It will be gone soon. Then there will be no excuses. It will be down to me," he said.

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